Moving to California

Getting Ready to Move to California

The state of California, all on its own, has the sixth largest economy in the world—larger, in fact, than that of France’s. With your recent plan to move to California, you’ve probably already given plenty of thought to the robust nature of the state’s economy, and the many jobs available across the tech, entertainment, agriculture and tourism industries. If you’re moving for a new job you’ve landed, congratulations! SmartMove is here to help you during your upcoming move.

Moving to California requires a fair amount of preparation and planning, whether you’ve bought a home or you’re planning to rent. With SmartMove, we can help you save money and find great deals on moving-related expenses. This moving to California guide will help you prepare for your upcoming journey to the Golden State.

Help and Services for Moving to California

When searching for a moving company, start by looking for movers in your area who provide moving services to California. Take the time to compare prices from licensed moving companies in order to secure the best deal. The SmartMove website has a helpful tool to aid you in finding reliable moving services to California. By using our detailed moving checklist, you’ll ensure that your move is as smooth as possible and that you won’t forget to pack anything.

Before you settle on a moving company, take the time to read online reviews. You’ll learn more about the quality of service, the company’s reputation, how they handle broken items or disputes, and their overall level of customer care. Some people moving to California opt to do it themselves, taking advantage of services like Uhaul, and asking favors from friends when it comes to packing and loading up the truck. If you are moving for a job, it’s always wise to ask your company if there are any perks available where they pick up some or all of the costs associated with the move.

Moving can also impact your federal income tax return. If you are moving to California for work, you may qualify to claim the costs associated with moving as a deduction. Make sure you consult with an accountant or qualified tax professional to see if you qualify.

Whichever company you choose to help with your move, it’s important to note the difference between an “order of service” and a “bill of lading,” or contract. While you should always get an estimate in writing (often referred to as an order of service), the bill of lading, or final contract for services, is what matters most. Your moving company will be required by law to attend to the services outlined in the bill of lading, so be sure to get this document ahead of your pending move, and to keep in a safe place.

Cable Providers Available in California

Depending on where in California you are moving, you will need to select from among the Internet and cable TV service providers available in your area, with companies like Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, Suddenlink, and Mediacom servicing various cities throughout the state.

To check out which TV, Internet, and cable providers will offer service in your area, simply use SmartMove to set up services. You can even have everything scheduled before you you're your move. Also SmartMove can tell you if the provider in your new town is the same as your existing provider; if so, you might be able to easily just transfer services. Moving your existing service to California or selecting a new service provider doesn’t have to be a hassle when you get SmartMove to help.

Knowing who will be your cable, internet, and phone provider when planning a move provides additional peace of mind during a sometimes stressful time. Having things set up when you arrive by planning in advance will alleviate stress and allow you to transition with ease. Proper planning will help with avoiding unnecessary delays and downtime should you have to schedule a service appointment after you’ve already moved.

Energy Providers Available in California

Similarly, you’ll want to make sure you have your gas, electricity, and other remaining utilities set up ahead of time before you move to California. Again, energy providers vary by region, so depending on where you’re moving in California, you’ll need to reach out to different providers to set up your new utilities. The California Energy Commission has a website with a list of all the electrical utility providers across the state. The website has information about renewable energy and providers of other utilities, like natural gas, as well.

In Southern California, major municipalities have their own water and power companies. For instance, if you move to Burbank, then you’ll rely on the City of Burbank Water and Power Company, whereas if you move to Azusa, you’ll have utilities through Azusa Light & Water.

Important California State Agencies and Resources

We know there are a million details to attend to when you move, but staying organized by using our handy moving checklist will help you navigate the experience that much easier. Be sure to register your car when you arrive. When you move to California, you’ll need to register your car, get new license plates, and apply for a new California driver’s license. To accomplish these tasks, make an appointment with the nearest California state DMV to make your trip convenient and painless.

Identify which providers you’ll need for specific utilities (such as cable and electricity, etc.), and get them set up ahead of time. If you give your providers your upcoming move date, you can start your new services on your move-in date to save money. Also, don’t forget to update all of your financial information. Be sure to notify your bank of your new address in addition to updating your address for existing credit cards and other bank accounts. Now that you’ve read through SmartMove’s Moving to California guide, you should have all the information and tools necessary to make the move as smooth as possible.

Disclaimer: The information is provided for general information and educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice.